Chivas Brothers and Simpsons Malt Partner with OCI to Boost Low-Carbon Fertilizer Production

Chivas Brothers, a leading Scotch whisky producer under the Pernod Ricard umbrella, and its strategic wheat supplier, Simpsons Malt Limited, have formed a strategic partnership with OCI Global, a prominent fertilizer industry leader. This collaborative initiative centers on a substantial investment in low-carbon fertilizer technology. By supporting the development and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, the partnership aims to significantly reduce the environmental footprint of whisky production.

A select group of farmers from the Chivas Brothers Wheat Growers Group, who supply wheat for the production of Chivas Brothers' blended whiskies, are currently trialing the low-carbon Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) fertilizer, Nutramon® Low Carbon. This initiative is part of an exclusive agreement between OCI Global and McCreath Simpson & Prentice, the agricultural merchanting division of Simpsons Malt Limited. The trial aims to assess the effectiveness of this sustainable fertilizer in reducing carbon emissions while supporting the cultivation of high-quality wheat for the whisky industry.

Nutramon® Low Carbon is an advanced fertilizer produced using certified bio-gas, resulting in a significantly reduced production carbon footprint—up to 50% less compared to traditional fertilizers (cradle-to-gate). This substantial reduction in emissions reflects the product's commitment to sustainability. Nutramon® Low Carbon is ISCC PLUS certified, which is a globally recognized independent certification standard for bio-based, bio-circular, and renewable feedstocks. This certification ensures that the fertilizer meets rigorous environmental and sustainability criteria, validating its lower carbon impact and reinforcing its role in promoting more eco-friendly agricultural practices. Although Nutramon® Low Carbon matches conventional fertilizers in both composition and effectiveness, its use leads to a notable 15-20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for the barley and wheat grown for distilling purposes.

Farmers participating in the pilot will harvest their crops between August and October 2024, with the wheat and malted barley destined for use in Chivas Brothers’ Ballantine’s blended Scotch. Following the evaluation of the trial's impact, Chivas Brothers will explore the broader application of bio-based fertilizers to further reduce carbon emissions across its supply chain. Looking ahead, both Chivas Brothers and Simpsons Malt Limited aim to expand their use of green fertilizers, including those utilizing green ammonia produced via electrolysis with renewable electricity, in collaboration with OCI Global's low carbon ammonia portfolio. This innovative approach could reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional fertilizers.

Ronald Daalmans, Sustainability Director at Chivas Brothers, emphasized the company's commitment to reducing carbon emissions throughout its supply chain, which requires embracing innovative solutions. He highlighted the importance of collaborating with partners like Simpsons Malt Limited and OCI Global to achieve this goal. By working closely with the farming community, Chivas Brothers aims to minimize the environmental impact of cereal crops used in their whiskies. Daalmans expressed enthusiasm for expanding this initiative and sharing their findings with the broader farming and whisky industries to foster positive environmental changes in Scotland and beyond.

Andy Hindhaugh, Commercial Director at Simpsons Malt Limited, emphasized the company's dedication to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. He highlighted the significance of their collaboration with Chivas Brothers and OCI Global, focusing on the trial of low-carbon Nutramon fertilizer.

Aviv Bar Tal, Vice President of Commercial Nitrogen at OCI Global, highlighted the company's commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of global food production through its low-carbon portfolio. He expressed pride in collaborating with Simpsons Malt Limited and Chivas Brothers to create a partnership that enhances sustainability within the food and drink supply chain.